Heading into 2019, the Atlanta Falcons have intense needs at three offensive line positions, including both guard spots. The team hasn’t had much luck finding solid offensive linemen in the NFL draft over the last few years, though. Since they picked Jake Matthews in the first round back in 2014, their only good acquisition was in free agency when they signed center Alex Mack.
This year’s free agent class does not offer much in terms of offensive line talent, either. So, the team may have no choice but to roll the dice again in the draft and hope that their luck changes.
Coach Dan Quinn recently spoke about the challenges of evaluating interior college line prospects and how well they’ll transition to the NFL, per Jason Butt at the Athletic.
“In college, you’re comparing player apples to apples. . . Then you’re having to say, ‘Can he block Kawann Short?’ That’s a difference. . . Some guys just aren’t strong and athletic enough to play in the NFL. Good technique, but why were they just a good college player? They generally don’t have the extra stuff to play in the NFL.”
Whether it’s the draft, trades or free agency, the Falcons have to address both right guard and left guard or they’ll risk another year of Matt Ryan getting sacked 40+ times.
.png?w=600)
